Traveling is proven to help rewire our brains. Experiencing new adventures contributes to our happiness far more than material possessions. According to research, the experiences we gain while traveling play a major role in forming new neural pathways in our brains. Traveling improves our creativity and adaptability, which leads to greater joy.
Taking our children on trips is always a great idea. It significantly boosts their development and turns them into citizens of the world at an astonishing rate. While Disney World, road trips, and all-inclusive cruises have long been popular kid-friendly vacations, in recent years, families are also exploring other exciting adventures worldwide with their kids.
If you are arranging a weekend getaway or an adventure to magical places for your kids, from theme parks to stunning national parks, here are some of the best family-friendly vacation stops in the United States.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach is often associated with partygoers and retirees, but it also offers plenty of activities for kids. Families traveling to this destination will find a variety of things to do, from visiting inspiring museums to enjoying the beach. You can plan a day at North Beach Oceanside Park, where your kids can spend a day building sandcastles and swimming while you sit back and quietly read a book.
Family fun happens every day at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. Children will adore the bright red bridge and ponds at the Japanese Garden, and they will also have a great time at the Edible Garden, where they can see tropical plants that produce fruits and nuts. Also, include in your itinerary a visit to the Museum of Illusions, where children can let their imaginations fly. This museum has more than 40 interactive 3D illusions.
You can find accommodations like the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbor, which has the best beach club for children. Or if you are looking for a more private place to stay with enough space for the whole family, Miami Beach also offers beautiful vacation home rentals.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This expansive park is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park covers approximately 523 square miles and rises from sea level to more than 13,000 feet. Within the park, you can explore one of the most active volcanoes in the world and encounter six of the Earth’s climate zones. Visiting for several days here is recommended to fully appreciate the diverse environments, including rugged lava fields, lush rainforests, and Hawaiian cultural sites. The park is open 24 hours daily, year-round.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located 45 minutes southwest of Hilo, 2 hours southeast of Waikoloa, and 2-2.5 hours southeast of Kailua-Kona. In the mentioned destinations, you can find excellent accommodation options suitable for families, such as The Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona or stunning vacation rentals with ocean views in the Big Island of Hawaii.
San Diego Zoo
One of the world’s best zoos is the San Diego Zoo and is home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals, including more than 650 species and subspecies. Visitors can interact with polar bears or interact with two-toed sloths, creating enjoyable and memorable experiences for children. Additionally, visitors can learn about how their visit contributes to conservation efforts worldwide.
When you are looking for accommodation, one of the best options is the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, as it is located right next to The New Children’s Museum. Now, if you are planning a trip for a large family, San Diego offers fantastic alternatives, such as vacation homes with pools or ocean views.
Dollywood
Dollywood is situated in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and has established itself as one of the top amusement parks for families. Inspired by Dolly Parton, this theme park is nestled in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. The park offers more than 50 rides, daily musical shows, and an iconic coal-powered steam train.
Dollywood is a theme park that has fun for everyone. There is something for everyone. For the little kids, there are gentle rides like the Amazing Flying Elephants and the Great Tree Swing. Older kids and thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline fix on rides like the Mystery Mine and the Wild Eagle. With over 50 rides, Dollywood truly has something for everyone.
To plan your trip, you can find accommodation at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, just minutes from the park. Various lodging options are available in Pigeon Forge, ranging from popular chain hotels to luxury cabins in the Smoky Mountains.
Yellowstone National Park
An unforgettable experience as a family is visiting Yellowstone National Park. This is the first national park in the United States that offers a wide range of activities for children and adults, from exciting wildlife encounters to kayaking. Every moment will be an experience you will remember forever.
Start your day by visiting the Grand Prismatic, an iconic place famous worldwide for its breathtaking magnificence. The best way to experience it is from above. This is one of the most popular hikes in Yellowstone. Another must-see is Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes. Check with park rangers upon entering the park to get an idea of the eruption schedule. Yellowstone General Stores are the perfect spot for a lunch break.
One stop perfect for families that stands out more than the rest is Lamar Valley. There is no better spot in the park for wildlife scouting; you will view bison, wolves, bears, elk, coyotes, and more here. Be sure to pack some tasty snacks, as you will be making stops at the pull-offs and might find yourselves caught in a bison jam.
There are many options for places to stay here, many with the advantage of being close to the park and offering exceptional amenities. You will find everything from lodging hubs, vacation rentals, beautiful glamping sites, rustic resorts, and secluded cabins.
Traveling With Your Kids Will Bring You Happiness
So the next time the holidays approach, take these destinations into account and perhaps when time has passed you will realize that you had the opportunity to visit each of these places, creating magical childhood memories for the little ones in the family.
